What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is an umbrella term used to describe different forms of developmental, neurological disorders affecting a child’s movement, muscle tone and coordination.

The common symptoms or signs of CP include:

  • Low muscle tone

  • Altered gait

  • Muscle spasm

  • Poor muscular control and reflexes

  • Delayed physical and learning development

  • Speech delay

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Seizures

People with CP may have reduced muscle strength and aerobic fitness. This can impact their ability to perform activities such as standing, walking, running and to participate in everyday life.

Why is exercise important?

Exercise is essential for everybody, including those with CP. Not only does exercise help to reduce the risk of developing Chronic Health conditions, it can also help to improve an individuals quality of life and independence.

How can exercise help?

A structured exercises program can help to improve an individuals:

  • Coordination
  • Balance
  • Strength
  • Flexibility
  • Aerobic endurance
  • Pain management
  • Posture and Gait
  • Overall health and reducing the risk for chronic health conditions.

How can you get started?

If have CP and want to start exercising, it’s important that you start slowly to build strength and confidence up over time. By starting slowly, you will have a lowered risk of injury or being too sore from a training session.

Aim for just 20 minutes per day, and combine a mix of strength and cardiorespiratory exercises for best results.

Need help getting started? We would love to help!

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